Nominate YOUR Icon
Help The Assembly of judges choose the 2025 nominees for the Virgin Islands Icon Awards. Judges have been diligently exploring each category for more than a year, but there are possibly people, organisations or businesses who should be considered that they don’t know. Here is your chance to bring them to their attention. Be thorough and show the assembly why your choice should be considered for an official nomination. All submissions will be considered, but only five nominees will emerge in each category following The Assembly’s deliberations. Nominations closed Thursday, 15th March 2025 at 5pm.
But before, get to know our categories:
Entrepreneurship: Youth In Business
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Celebrating the innovative spirit of young entrepreneurs aged 14-35!
This award recognises outstanding young business leaders who are making waves in their industries.
Judges will look for:
– Innovative business idea or product
– Strong business plan and growth potential
– Leadership skills and team management
– Impact on the community or industry
– Financial acumen and sustainability
– Passion and dedication to their venture
Are you or know a young trailblazer with a business that’s changing the game? Nominate now!
LIve entertainment ensemble: battle of the bands
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Get ready for the ultimate musical showdown!
This award celebrates the best musical bands in The Virgin Islands, across all genres. From rock to reggae, hip-hop to classical, and of course BRAM – all bands are welcome to compete!
Judges will look for:
– Electrifying stage presence and performance
– Musical talent and originality
– Audience engagement and crowd control
– Overall showmanship and entertainment value
– Creativity and uniqueness
Know a band that has what it takes to win The Battle of the Bands? Nominate now and show The Virgin Islands what they’re made of!
Corporate Social Intelligence
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This award recognises the organisation demonstrating excellence in responsible sponsorship, corporate philanthropy, and community outreach. The impact of the CSR programmes will be assessed as they relate to:
- Effectiveness in impacting the communities they are focusing on
- Involvement of their personnel
- Sustainability and long-term impact
- As well as activities involved beyond just a financial contribution
Sports-Development
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Designated for persons who work in the following disciplines:
• Coaching
• Administration
This award recognises coaches or administrators who have shown outstanding commitment, service, innovation and/or achievements in developing and preparing athletes for their season of competition.
The Assembly shall consider:
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Vision for the territory for achievement through athletics, regionally and internationally.
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Coaching achievement during the current athletic season.
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Completion of any recognised Coaching Accreditation Course/s.
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Coaching experience.
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Presents a positive image of coaching and is a role model to athletes and/or the community.
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Shows respect for athletes, officials, opponents, and supporters within the sporting community.
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Has adhered to the athletic code of conduct during competitions.
Excellence from the Family Islands
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A repeat category created to celebrate “la crème de la crème” in what’s known as the sister (family) islands in The Virgin Islands.
With no specific field or area of interest, the winner/s of this category should be known for being outstanding for their business acumen and contributions to the communities they serve.
These are the people known to the island they live on and possibly to neighbouring islands too. These are the go-to kind of people on this given island and are also positive faces of that community.
This award celebrates the kind of people that residents on the sister island are proud to call their own!
Visual Arts: Graphic Designs
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Designated for persons who work in the following disciplines:
• Graphic Design
• Commercial Artistry
• Brand Identity & Visual Communication
• Digital & Print Design
• Creative Direction
• Merchandising Design
This award recognises graphic designers and visual communicators who have demonstrated outstanding creativity, innovation, and professional excellence in shaping visual culture and communicating ideas through design.
The Assembly shall consider:
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Length of time in the industry, including longevity, growth, and sustainability.
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Body of work, including quality, consistency, and overall volume of design output.
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Originality of style, approach, innovation, and creative problem-solving.
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Cultural and artistic significance, including contribution to Virgin Islands heritage, identity, and visual storytelling.
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Impact and influence of work at the local, regional, and international levels.
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Contribution to the development of the creative industry through collaboration, mentorship, education, or community engagement.
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Professional conduct and adherence to ethical standards within the creative and commercial design space.
Industrial leadership and development: Heavy equipment operators
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Industrial Leadership and Development: Heavy Equipment Operators Award
Recognising outstanding businesses in The Virgin Islands that excel in heavy equipment operation and leadership!
This award celebrates companies that demonstrate exceptional management, innovation, and safety standards in the industry.
Eligibility: Open to legally licensed businesses operating in The Virgin Islands.
Judges will look for:
– Excellent safety record and risk management
– Effective leadership and team management
– Innovative approaches to equipment maintenance and operation
– Contribution to local infrastructure development
– Commitment to environmental sustainability
– Strong reputation and client satisfaction
Honour a team’s hard work and dedication – nominate now!
humanitarian efforts: people who make a difference
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Celebrating individuals making a profound impact in The Virgin Islands!
This award shines a spotlight on a single person or a group of people not exceeding FIVE, who’s going above and beyond to make a difference in their community.
Judges will look for:
– Selfless dedication to helping others
– Positive impact on the community or environment
– Innovative approaches to solving local challenges
– Compassion, empathy, and kindness
– Inspiration to others through their actions
Nominate people who are making waves of kindness in The Virgin Islands – Nominate now!
Recorded entertainment
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Designated for persons who work in the following disciplines:
- Syndicated Shows
- Ratings Shows
- Social media blogs and shows
- Live-to-Tape Shows
This award celebrates cutting edge developments and forward-thinking production shaping the future of the Virgin Islands entertainment industry. Thereby it honours brand development and not personal achievement.
The Assembly shall consider the following, but are not limited to:
- Success of the show with target audience
- Impact on target audience and media
- Placement in society and community importance
- Extension- how the show is represented outside its chosen medium
Music industry
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Designated for persons who work in the following disciplines:
• Live Performance
• Recording Artists
• Concert Performance
• Instrumental Performance
• Vocal Performance
This award recognises musicians, vocalists, and instrumentalists who have demonstrated outstanding artistic excellence, performance ability, and contribution to the music industry through live and recorded work.
The Assembly shall consider, but are not limited to:
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Success and visibility on radio and broadcast platforms.
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Sales and performance of recorded music, including singles, albums, or EPs.
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Success and reach of music videos and visual music content.
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Quality and consistency of live vocal or instrumental performances.
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Live concert performance history and ticket sales.
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Artistic merit, originality, and musical creativity.
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Songwriting and compositional contribution.
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Success and engagement in digital media and streaming platforms.
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Contribution to the development, visibility, and growth of the Virgin Islands music industry.
enviromental works: agriculture
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The Virgin Islands Icon Awards is looking for projects that showcase innovative and sustainable agricultural practices that benefit the environment and the community. The judging criteria will be based on the following qualities, with the corresponding weightages:
1. Environmental Impact (25%)
– Does the project demonstrate a significant reduction in environmental harm or improvement in environmental quality?
– Are the project’s goals and outcomes measurable and achievable?
2. Innovation and Creativity (20%)
– Does the project introduce new or innovative techniques, technologies, or approaches to sustainable agriculture?
– Is the project creative in its solution to environmental challenges?
3. Time Spent in Industry (10%)
– Does the applicant have a demonstrated commitment to the agricultural industry in the Virgin Islands?
– How has the applicant’s experience and expertise contributed to the project’s success?
4. Impact of Product/s on Virgin Islands Market (15%)
– Does the project produce a product that is in demand in the Virgin Islands market?
– How does the product contribute to the local economy and food security?
5. Community Engagement and Benefits (15%)
– Does the project engage and benefit the local community, including education and outreach efforts?
– Are the project’s benefits shared equitably among stakeholders?
6. Sustainability and Long-term Viability (10%)
– Is the project designed to be sustainable and self-sufficient in the long term?
– Are there plans for ongoing monitoring and evaluation?
7. Scalability and Replicability (5%)
– Can the project be scaled up or replicated in other contexts or locations?
– Does the project have the potential to influence broader environmental policies or practices?
Judges will evaluate submissions based on these criteria, considering the project’s overall impact, innovation, and potential for positive change in The Virgin Islands. 🌎🌱
Here’s a summary table:
| Criteria | Weightage |
Environmental Impact | 25% |
Innovation and Creativity | 20% |
Time Spent in Industry | 10% |
Impact of Product/s on Virgin Islands Market | 15% |
Community Engagement and Benefits | 15% |
Sustainability and Long-term Viability | 10% |
Scalability and Replicability | 5% |
The 26th Category: Man of the Year Award
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Honouring outstanding men in The Virgin Islands!
This prestigious award recognises an exceptional individual, 18 or older, who’s made a significant impact in any field – be it business, arts, sports, or community service.
Judges will look for:
– Outstanding achievements and contributions
– Leadership and influence in their field
– Positive impact on the community or industry
– Integrity, character, and humility
– Inspiration to others through their work
Nominate a deserving man who’s shaping the future of The Virgin Islands – nominate now!
Entrepreneurship: Youth In Business
Designated for an individual who has demonstrated enterprise, vision, innovation and entrepreneurial spirit either in setting up a successful new small business or successfully developing an existing business or social enterprise.
The Assembly will consider:
- Innovation, ambition and clarity of vision
- Strong leadership with the ability to drive the business forward and solve day-to-day business problems
- A visible sales and marketing strategy which addresses the need for growth
- Business growth
Excellence from the Family Islands
A new category to celebrate “la crème de la crème” in what’s known as the sister (family) islands in the VI. With no specific field or area of interest, the winner(s) of this category are known for being outstanding for their business acumen and contributions to the communities they serve. These persons are known to the island they live on and possibly to neighbouring islands too. These are the go-to kind of people on this given island and are also positive faces of that community. This award celebrates the kind of people that residents on the sister island are proud to call their own!
Humanitarian Efforts: People who make a difference
Designated for a person or group, who through personal or establishing vision use their resources or the shared resources of a group with concern to promote human welfare.
Criteria for Selection:
- All persons and/ or groups in The Virgin Islands regardless of age, race, sex or religion and shall also consider any recommendations from the general public;
- The visibility of the cause or the person in the community so that others will be inspired by their humanitarian activities;
- That the person may be a volunteer or an employed person. That the group may be not for profit. And if employed and for profit, that the quality of the humanitarian effort shall exceed that called for by the position;
- That because the award recognises the human factor in humanitarianism, the quality of the recipient/s’ personal involvement with others in need of assistance or support will be carefully considered.
History/Culture/Traditions
Designated for persons who works in the following disciplines: Preservation of institutions, traditions, and cultural norms
- Creating modern relevance
- Creating territorial pride through works, project, or single item.
This award recognises distinguished individuals, nonprofit organisations, public agencies and corporations whose skill and determination have given new meaning to their communities through preservation of our historical landmarks, cultural heritage, Virgin Islands traditions and/or created moments for Territorial pride through their works.
These efforts include citizen attempts to save and maintain important landmarks; companies and craftsmen whose work restores the richness of the past; the vision of public officials who support preservation projects and legislation in their communities; and educators, creators and journalists who help Virgin Islands understand the value of preservation and present content in a way that a new generation is inspired by the past.
Live Entertainment Ensemble: Battle of the bands.
Designated for persons who work in the following disciplines:
- Performing Bands
- Performing Artist (not necessarily recorded)
This award celebrates cutting edge developments and forward thinking production shaping the future of the Virgin Islands entertainment industry. Thereby it honours brand development and personal achievement.
The Assembly shall consider the following, but are not limited to:
- Success at radio (Where this applies)
- Record sales (Where this applies)
- Success in digital media
- Impact of the song on consumers and the Virgin Islands community.
- The creative integrity of the performances.
Media-Presenters
Designated for a persons who work in the following disciplines:
- Live event hosts and presenters
- Radio and Television (TVC) Personalities
- Disc Jockeys
This award celebrates cutting edge developments and forward thinker/s (ensemble casts may be considered) shaping the future of the Virgin Islands entertainment industry. Thereby it honours innovations, entrepreneurship and brand development.
The Assembly shall consider the following, but are not limited to:
- Success of programme or event with target audience
- Natural ability
- Sales and/or subscriptions/(shares) of material
- Live performance success
- Ticket sales for affiliated events
- Artistic merit
- Appearances
Media-The Show
Designated for persons who work in the following disciplines:
- Syndicated Shows
- Ratings Shows
- Social media blogs and shows
- Live-to-Tape Shows
- Live Stage Productions
This award celebrates cutting edge developments and forward-thinking production shaping the future of the Virgin Islands entertainment industry. Thereby it honours brand development and not personal achievement.
The Assembly shall consider the following, but are not limited to:
- Success of the show with target audience
- Impact on target audience and media
- Placement in society and community importance
- Extension- how the show is represented outside its chosen medium
Music-Industry
Designated for persons who work in the following disciplines:
- Performing Bands
- Performing Artist (not necessarily recorded)
This award celebrates cutting edge developments and forward thinking production shaping the future of the Virgin Islands entertainment industry. Thereby it honours brand development and personal achievement.
The Assembly shall consider the following, but are not limited to:
- Success at radio (Where this applies)
- Record sales (Where this applies)
- Success in digital media
- Impact of the song on consumers and the Virgin Islands community.
- The creative integrity of the performances.
Religion/Spirituality/Inspiration
Designated for persons who work in the following disciplines:
Ministry and Evangelism
Uplift and Inspiration
Assembly shall consider:
Projects, shows, or pieces of work bursting with faith and/or inspiration resources have proven to be genuine assets to religious and inspirational work.
Projects, shows or pieces having significant influence in the designated sector.
For the geniuses of movement who flawlessly blend artistry, dance and music, either through instruction and/ or demonstration. This award recognises the designers of dance performances and those who specialise in theatrical and performance dancing.
The Industrialists
Dedicated to the builders of the Territory who have demonstrated excellence in the field of construction. This award embraces those professionals specialising in engineering, plumbing, electrical, quantity surveying and other areas relative to construction. Nominees must posses technical and visionary skills and should be known for remarkable work known by the quantity and known for its quality.
Visual Arts : Graphic Design
With a camera and imagination, they can tell a story with each picture captured. These aficionados have an eye for beauty and art, and are known throughout the Virgin Islands for their unparalleled skill set in photography. Artistes in this field are recognised for scenic photography, portraits, event photography and high fashion or editorial bodies of work. Photo journalists are considered within this category.
Designated for persons who operate in the following disciplines:
- Author-Books
- Author-Poetry
- Author- Contributory Writings
- Publishing
- Journalism
This award recognises real excellence in style and content from writers on any platform, or across multiple platforms. Whatever the medium, The Assembly will consider: writing of the highest quality in a style appropriate to the relevant audience. The winning entry will show evidence of the writer or publisher’s brilliance, originality, and flair, together with their ability to truly captivate the target audience.